While Hurricane Matthew this week has captured the attention of many U.S. residents, threatened by the damage it’s been inflicting on our Eastern coast, the United States and Russia are creeping closer and closer to military conflict. Although, for now, it may only be a skirmish of cyber-war, the Russians have re-positioned nuclear weapons along its border with Poland, prompting written responses from German officials. Adding fuel to the fire of political rhetoric, the U.S. has now openly and officially accused Russia of being behind the Democratic National Party’s email hacks, and tampering with our nation’s election equipment.

Prior to the official announcement on Friday, the U.S. had been increasing its political rhetoric directed at Russia’s support for the Syrians and Bashar Al Assad’s regime. The U.S. wanted Russia and Syria to implement a 7-day cease-fire to stop bombing rebel-held areas of Aleppo. According to Al-Jazeera, the Russians saw the request for a cease-fire as a way for the U.S. backed rebel troops, whom Syria considers “terrorists,” to rest from fighting, stock up on supplies, and sleep. But no cease-fire was reached and direct talks between the U.S. and Russia broke down this week, further escalating the conflict, which the Obama administration now admits may lead to the U.S. to take military action against Syria. Reportedly as a consequence of Washington’s tough talk, the Russians have now deployed anti-aircraft batteries to protect their bases in Syria — backed by threats to shoot down US jets.